Lighthouse Schools to Watch

Lighthouse Schools To Watch

Georgia Lighthouse Schools to Watch a program of the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform

Georgia Lighthouse Schools to Watch seeks to identify high-performing middle grades schools in Georgia. We were one of the first three states in the nation to qualify to be part of the prestigious National Forum Schools to Watch® program. Schools across the country that are committed to a journey of excellence are identified based on their levels of implementation of the 4 domains of the program:

Academic Excellence – High-performing schools with middle grades are academically excellent. They challenge all students to use their minds well.

Developmental Responsiveness – High-performing schools with middle grades are sensitive to the unique developmental challenges of early adolescence.

Social Equity – High-performing schools with middle grades are socially equitable, democratic, and fair. They provide every student with high-quality teachers, resources, learning opportunities, and supports. They keep positive options open for all students.

Organizational Structures and Processes – High-performing schools with middle grades are learning organizations that establish norms, structures, and organizational arrangements to support and sustain their trajectory toward excellence.

At this time Georgia has 18 schools in the program. These schools serve as models and mentors for other schools in the state while, at the same time, continuing their own journey of excellence. Lighthouse Schools to Watch must re-apply every three years to demonstrate their continued growth and to remain in the program.